The picture shows a group of friends gathering in a Christmas-lit square in Bern. They clink glasses and enjoy the festive atmosphere in front of the Federal Palace. The mood is warm and cheerful, full of community spirit and anticipation of the festive season.

Bern’s Christmas markets

From traditional markets to Bernese craftsmanship to foodie heaven: the Christmas markets in and around Bern are as diverse as the people who visit them. Here’s everything you need to know about the festive season in Bern – Christmas markets and winter pop-up bars, fondue places, gift guides, city tours and much more.

Bern’s Christmas markets and winter pop-ups

During Advent, the scent of gingerbread, candied almonds and caramel wafts through the festively decorated streets and alleys in Bern. From trendy Christmas markets and winter pop-up bars in Bern’s old town – all within walking distance from one another – to historic Advent atmosphere at Burgdorf Castle to pure romance at the Christmas market in Huttwil: here are the must-sees.

To the highlights

The picture shows Bern's festively illuminated Christmas market on Waisenhausplatz. People stream past, wrapped in warm jackets, while the lights create a magical and inviting atmosphere. The mood is lively and full of anticipation.

More Christmas inspo

The restaurants set the tables for fondue. The streets of Bern’s charming villages light up. The museums polish their exhibits. And products made in Bern wait to be wrapped and placed under the Christmas tree.

The picture shows a convivial group in the Rosengarten restaurant in Bern, enjoying a fondue with a magnificent view of the city of Bern in the background, creating an atmosphere of cosiness and friendship.

Where to have fondue in Bern

The picture shows three women standing at the artificial ice rink on the Bundesplatz in Bern and clinking glasses. The Federal Palace can be seen in the background. The women are wearing winter clothing and laughing together. Children are skating on the ice rink, some using orange-coloured learning aids. The atmosphere is wintry and cheerful, and the scene is illuminated by the setting sun, creating a warm and cosy mood.

Christmas adventures in Bern

The “I love Bern” Advent calendar

Bern has a lot of surprises in store – and some of them are hidden behind the doors of our famous Advent calendar. Starting on 1 December, you’ll have the chance to win wonderful prizes. Got curious?Then be sure to drop by every day and participate – good luck!

A door a day

The picture shows a festively wrapped gift on a wooden table, decorated with twigs and berries. Next to the gift is a glass with a lit candle. Blurred lights can be seen in the background, creating a warm, festive atmosphere.

The picture shows a snowy winter landscape in Bern with a view of the Kirchenfeldbrücke bridge and the surrounding buildings. A calm, peaceful mood hangs over the city. The white snow lends the scene a fairytale-like, clear atmosphere.

All about Bern’s Christmas markets

Getting there and other practical information

Bernmobil takes visitors to the city’s most beautiful Christmas experiences.

Winter getaway

Is there anything better than taking a few days off to unwind and reset before the Christmas festivities begin? Be it a romantic “Znacht” (dinner) in the city or a long weekend in the countryside – find out what Bern’s hotels and their restaurants have come up with to spread joy.